Fergie warns United he won't accept Euro flop like last year
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Failure won't be tolerated: Fergie warns United he won't accept Euro flop like last year
Sir Alex Ferguson is adamant his side will avoid the embarrassment of an early Champions League exit they suffered last season.
The three-time champions of Europe limped out at the group stage a year ago despite what appeared on paper to be a straightforward placing alongside Basel, Benfica and Otelul Galati.
This time United, who won the tournament in 2008, are grouped with Galatasaray, Braga and Cluj, and Ferguson won't tolerate another below-par showing.
'We've had opportunities in the competition,' he stated.
'We've lost two finals to Barcelona and won two in the last decade or so but we want to do better.
'Certainly, well do better than last year - no question about that.
'The European Cup is incredible. Theres an atmosphere in the build-up to a European final and great charisma about it.
Also, without question, it elevates your status within the game like the Real Madrids and AC Milans.
'We want to be up there in terms of the number of trophies won in European football.
'The only thing you can think about is qualifying. Manchester City are with Borussia Dortmund, Ajax and Real Madrid and its going to be a tight group. It doesnt mean to say City cant get through as the other teams will be saying City are strong but the two who go through will deserve it.
'If we dont go through, we will be criticised and pilloried for it and quite rightly. Weve had our warning and I dont anticipate going out this time.'
Sir Alex Ferguson is adamant his side will avoid the embarrassment of an early Champions League exit they suffered last season.
The three-time champions of Europe limped out at the group stage a year ago despite what appeared on paper to be a straightforward placing alongside Basel, Benfica and Otelul Galati.
This time United, who won the tournament in 2008, are grouped with Galatasaray, Braga and Cluj, and Ferguson won't tolerate another below-par showing.
'We've had opportunities in the competition,' he stated.
'We've lost two finals to Barcelona and won two in the last decade or so but we want to do better.
'Certainly, well do better than last year - no question about that.
'The European Cup is incredible. Theres an atmosphere in the build-up to a European final and great charisma about it.
Also, without question, it elevates your status within the game like the Real Madrids and AC Milans.
'We want to be up there in terms of the number of trophies won in European football.
'The only thing you can think about is qualifying. Manchester City are with Borussia Dortmund, Ajax and Real Madrid and its going to be a tight group. It doesnt mean to say City cant get through as the other teams will be saying City are strong but the two who go through will deserve it.
'If we dont go through, we will be criticised and pilloried for it and quite rightly. Weve had our warning and I dont anticipate going out this time.'
